There was shock and anger in the community after this CCTV picture showed a thief stealing from a mosque.

The man waited until everyone had started praying before rifling through some coats that were hung up behind their backs.

Then, with the worshippers still facing the other way in prayer, he sneaked out with a wallet containing £50.

The thief even wore a Masjid hat in an effort to blend and was described as Asian and wearing a distinctive dark jacket with a stripe.

Police have branded the thief 'despicable' and said they feared he may target other religious buildings across Lancashire.

Officers believe the thief had researched the layout of Chester Street Mosque, Blackburn, and deliberately struck during prayer time so he would not be spotted.

The thief struck on Monday, May 16, but police released the CCTV footage from the mosque in a bid to step up the hunt for him.

Rafiq Khan, chairman of Chester Street Mosque, said: "I would like to warn the rest of the mosques in Blackburn, indeed in Lancashire, about this man as I am sure he will try to do it again.

Rafiq Khan added, "It is outrageous that religious establishments should be targeted in this way and so blatantly."

Mosques much, like other religious places have been targeted by petty crooks in the past on occasions but this is the first a theft has been caught on camera.

Ibrahim Master, chairman of the Lancashire Council of Mosques, said, "I think it is despicable that someone could do that when people were worshipping.

"It is extremely rare that something like this should happen, but it is a sign of the times, sadly."

Manchesters Coun Afzal Khan added, "I am aware of such shameful thefts not only here but in other countries. It is sadly now a part of society."

PC Karen Parker said: This is a despicable crime.

"There is nothing to say that he hasnt tried to do this elsewhere in Blackburn, or that he won't try the same thing again.

"I would urge people attending Mosques, indeed all religious establishments, to be vigilant and be aware of anyone suspicious hanging around."

PC Parker appealed for anyone with information about the theft or who recognises the thief to come forward by calling 01254 51212 and quoting reference number 31EQ/170505.